Expect your tree to stay fresh for only 2-4
weeks. Trees are like flowers, if you take care of them,
they will last twice as long and look and smell twice as
good.

Warning: Keep the tree stand filled with
water. A seal of dried sap will form over the cut stump in four
to six hours if the water drops below the base of the tree,
preventing the tree from absorbing water later when the tree
stand is refilled. If a seal does form, another fresh cut will
need to be made.

A tree will absorb as much as a gallon of water
or more in the first 24 hours and one or more quarts a day thereafter.
Water is important because it prevents the needles from drying
and dropping off and the boughs from drooping. Water also keeps
the tree fragrant.

Sensible precautions such as these will help preserve
the unique beauty and tradition that only a real Christmas tree
can provide.